Monk seal country, by boat. This full-day catamaran trip takes you from Funchal to the Desertas Islands Natural Reserve, where volcanic cliffs meet crystal-clear water and a conservation story you can actually walk through.

I especially love the combo of scenery and sea time: volcanic formations outside the windows, then a real chance to swim on arrival. The second big win for me is the guided stop on Deserta Grande, with a walk that connects you to the monk seal protection work and the plants and animals that live there.

One thing to plan for: the transfer from boat to island can be tricky, and this trip isn’t suitable for people with mobility impairments.

Quick hits before you go

• Desertas Islands are a protected reserve you visit by sea, not by bus or car traffic.
• Deserta Grande is the only disembark spot, so the island time feels focused and intentional.
• A guided walk to the conservation center links the scenery to real monk seal protection.
• Volcanic beach water is the main event once you’re ashore.
• On-water add-ons include snorkeling and stand up paddleboarding, if conditions are right.

Why the Desertas Islands feel different from other Madeira boat trips

Most Madeira boat days are about one thing: views from the water. This one gives you that too, but it also adds purpose. The Desertas are part of a large marine and island reserve, protected for decades, and the day is built around visiting the habitat carefully.

You’ll feel it right away. Cruising along Madeira’s south coast is often breezy and dramatic, and the islands’ volcanic shapes look like they were carved yesterday. Then, once you reach the reserve area, you trade big-port tourism for a calmer, more natural feel—salt air, low-key beach time, and a guided walk that explains why this place matters.

Getting to the VMT catamaran at Funchal Marina

Your day starts with a simple meet-up: go to the VMT Madeira Kiosk at the Funchal Marina and meet your guide there. No hotel pick-up is included, so you’ll want to plan your timing to arrive with some buffer—marinas can be busy, and you don’t want to sprint while carrying a bag you’d rather not carry.

The tour also includes a safety briefing before you head out. It’s usually quick, but it’s worth paying attention since the rest of the day includes water activities and tender transfers.

Sailing past Madeira’s south coast: scenery plus possible wildlife

Once you leave Funchal, you’ll spend time cruising with scenic views along Madeira’s south side. This is the stretch of the day where the weather and sea conditions can set the tone. If it’s calm, it feels like a long, easy reset. If it’s windier, you’ll feel the motion more, so bring the windbreaker even if it looks mild in town.

You might also get wildlife sightings on the way. Some past trips have included dolphin sightings and even whale sightings—so if you like the thrill of scanning the horizon, keep your eyes up during the cruise legs.

Deserta Grande arrival: volcanic beach time and the tender transfer reality

Deserta Grande is where you step ashore. That matters because it keeps the visit controlled: you’re not roaming all islands and islets. Instead, you get one island landing and a guided experience that flows from there.

When you disembark, you’ll go from catamaran to island waters and onto a volcanic-origin beach. Expect rocks and slip points around the transfer. Bring swim shoes or footwear that’s made for wet, uneven ground. Flip-flops might be tempting in the moment, but the safer move is shoes you don’t mind getting soaked.

Once you’re down, the water is the star. The reserve area is known for clear water, and you’ll have time for a swim right away. If you’ve only imagined these islands in photos, this is where the day turns from viewing to doing.

A practical note on comfort

Some people find that going from catamaran to island and back takes focus. It’s not hard in a dramatic way, but it is real physical work—stepping down, watching your footing, and staying balanced. This is also why the tour isn’t suitable for mobility impairments.

The guided walk: monk seal conservation you can see explained

This is the part I’d call the heart of the day. Desertas are internationally known for monk seal conservation efforts, and the tour is designed so you learn about those efforts instead of just passing the coastline.

You’ll enjoy a guided walk and visit the conservation area. The guide explains what the protection work looks like and why the reserve is managed as it is. You’ll also learn about endemic flora and fauna—the kinds of plants and animals that are part of the islands’ natural character.

One key expectation to set before you go: this tour is not a guaranteed monk seal viewing session. The conservation center story and the protected habitat are the focus, and wildlife sightings are still nature-driven. Treat seeing a seal as a bonus if it happens, not the metric that decides whether the day was worth it.

How long is the walking?

You get a guided walk, but don’t assume this is a long hiking day. It’s more about education and seeing the island context up close than about covering major trails. If your goal is big physical exertion, you may find the walking portion shorter than you hoped.

Lunch on board: included, timed well, and easy to manage

Lunch is included with drinks, served while you’re on the catamaran. For a 9-hour day, that’s a big deal: you don’t have to hunt for food or trade your energy for decision-making.

Food has been a strong point in past experiences, with people calling it very good and noting that it works for different dietary needs. If you have dietary requirements, it’s smart to plan ahead and flag them when your tour operator asks—based on what’s been reported, options like vegetarian meals can be handled.

Timing-wise, lunch also helps you reset. After sun and water time ashore, you’ll likely appreciate the chance to sit down, cool off, and eat without thinking.

Snorkeling and stand up paddleboarding: add-ons that change the vibe

Back on the water, the trip doesn’t stop at a quick swim. You may get chances for snorkeling and stand up paddleboarding. These activities are where the day becomes more than a scenic tour—you’re engaging with the marine environment directly.

A few tips that matter in the real world:

• Use the calmer windows. If conditions are rough, focus on safety and stay flexible.
• Expect salt. Rinse your hands and face when you can.
• If you’re doing paddleboarding, take a moment before stepping on to check balance and footing. It’s not about speed; it’s about control.

If you’re the type who likes hands-on experiences, this is a strong reason to choose this option over a simple sightseeing cruise.

What to bring for an easy, comfortable day

You’ll be outside for hours, and the reserve setting can bring wind even when Madeira’s city air feels warm. Pack like the day will run a bit cooler than you expect, especially during the boat legs.

Bring:

• Comfortable shoes (and ideally ones that handle wet surfaces)
• Windbreaker (wind is real)
• Change of clothes (you’ll thank yourself later)
• Towel
• Sunscreen

If it’s summer, also plan on swimwear and a quick-dry approach. Many people underestimate how quickly a breezy boat ride can cool you off.

And one more practical rule: the tour doesn’t allow luggage or large bags. If you hate carrying things all day, keep it light.

Price and value: is $106 for 9 hours a fair deal?

At about $106 per person, you’re paying for more than a boat ride. The value comes from the mix:

• Catamaran cruise for a full 9 hours
• Lunch with drinks
• Guided island time on Deserta Grande tied to conservation education
• Water time that can include swimming, snorkeling, and stand up paddleboarding
• A crew and guide who handle safety and the pacing of the day

Where you might feel the cost more is on comfort. Some people mention that the catamaran seating can be hard, like bench-style rows. So if you’re sensitive to comfort during long boat rides, know that you’re trading cushy seating for a bigger adventure day.

Also remember what’s not included: there’s no hotel pick-up/drop-off. That’s not bad—it just means you should budget time to get to the marina on your own.

Who should book this catamaran trip (and who should skip it)

This tour is a great fit if you want a Madeira day that’s not only scenic, but also meaningful. I’d especially recommend it for:

• People who love wildlife-adjacent travel and ocean views
• Travelers who enjoy learning while moving, not just watching from a deck
• Anyone who wants a true swim-and-snorkel style day in protected natural water

You might want to think twice if:

• You have mobility impairments, since the tour isn’t suitable for that
• You need guaranteed wildlife sightings. The reserve and conservation focus are certain; specific animals on a specific day are not

Should you book the Desertas Islands Full-Day Catamaran Trip?

If you’re choosing between a simple boat cruise and something more structured, I’d pick this one. The reason is simple: you get volcanic beach time, a guided conservation walk, and real water activities in one stretch. It’s a day that makes you feel like you visited a place with rules worth keeping.

Book it if you’re comfortable with the idea of wind, saltwater mess, and a little rocky-tender footing. Skip it or ask for alternatives if you need step-free access.

If you want my decision rule: choose this trip when you care about the combination of sea time plus conservation education. That pairing is what turns the day from a pleasant excursion into a story you’ll actually remember.

FAQ

How long is the Desertas Islands full-day catamaran trip from Funchal?

The trip runs for 9 hours.

Where do I meet the guide in Funchal?

Meet your guide at the VMT Madeira Kiosk at the Funchal Marina.

What’s included in the price?

The price includes the catamaran cruise and lunch with drinks.

Is hotel pick-up or drop-off included?

No. Hotel pick-up and drop-off are not included.

What should I bring?

Bring comfortable shoes, a windbreaker, a change of clothes, a towel, and sunscreen. Swimwear can be useful in warm months, and swim shoes are helpful due to the island access.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility impairments?

No, it is not suitable for people with mobility impairments.